Type of Prototypes
Vision prototype
As a common communication platform–
using them to get everyone on the same
page…
Conceptual prototype
Work through a design–for designers and
developers, prototypes act as a way to
work through your design…
Consensus prototype
Sell your idea internally–using them to sell
your design solution to internal stake
holders…
Technical prototype
Gauge technical feasibility–designers want to
do X, but can engineering do it? Do we have
the resources? Is it worth the effort?
Demo
As a marketing tool–while similar to number
3, this is for an external audience.
Todd Zaki Warfel / Joe Lamantia
@PhilipLikens

Communication
Evolve / Test
Vision prototype
As a common communication platform–
using them to get everyone on the same
page…
Conceptual prototype
Work through a design–for designers and
developers, prototypes act as a way to
work through your design…
Consensus prototype
Sell your idea internally–using them to sell
your design solution to internal stake
holders…
Technical prototype
Gauge technical feasibility–designers want to
do X, but can engineering do it? Do we have
the resources? Is it worth the effort?
Demo
Testing prototype?
As a marketing tool–while similar to number What you put in front of User Testing folks?
3, this is for an external audience.
@PhilipLikens

Don’t waste your time…
“Building” beyond the minimum
1. Make the one thing that matters high(er) ﬁdelity.
6. If you’re setting vision, build only what you
need to tell your story (happy path).
10. Your prototype is like wedding planning - it
will take as long as you give it.
11. Talking about the outcome allows for better
scope conversations.
@PhilipLikens

Secrets of Minimum Viable Prototyping
1. Make the one thing that matters high(er) ﬁdelity.
2. Pick methods based on outcome.
3. Working code wins
4. If you’re testing feasibility, apply some rigor.
5. Be sure your vision is correct.
6. If you’re setting vision, build only what you need to tell your story (happy path).
7. High ﬁdelity != Low ﬁdelity
8. Platforms dictate interactions.
9. The design is the implementation.
10. Your prototype is like wedding planning - it will take as long as you give it.
11. Talking about the outcome allows for better scope conversations.
12. Ensure what you’re designing is possible.
13. Design at actual (tiny) size.
@PhilipLikens